Tamil Nadu

Teacher-student bond is improving: officials

MADURAI: Officials of the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) scheme have dismissed the criticism that introduction of Activity Based Learning (ABL) methodology in Government schools has increased the work load for teachers.

“Some members of teachers’ associations expressed apprehension over the ABL system. In fact, we found that the bond between students and teachers is increasing because of this interactive teaching-learning approach,” K. Natarajan, SSA Chief Educational Officer, said here on Wednesday.

Talking to reporters after a media visit to few Government schools where ABL is being implemented, he said that the new methodologies like ABL and Active Learning Methodology (ALM), from primary to middle schools, had changed the outlook of Government schools.

Mr. Natarajan also refuted the criticism in certain sections that ABL had reduced the homework component for students and brought down writing practice in classrooms.

“ABL was introduced on a pilot basis in 150 schools in Madurai district during 2005-06. The initial hurdles are no longer there and the positive impact on children is visible,” the CEO said. Stating that teachers were provided adequate training before they could handle ABL and ALM, he said that the Department of School Education had never asked teachers to work beyond the regular official timings of duty.

N. Ammayappan, District Elementary Education Officer (in charge), said that it was ABL that led to introduction of English-speaking skills in Government schools, which he said, was purely in public interest and in tune with the changing times.

As of now, ABL is implemented in 1,240 primary schools in Madurai district while ALM, meant for middle schools, is available in 534 schools. The officials also explained the State Government’s initiative to provide television and DVD players to schools through the Electronics Corporation of Tamil Nadu (ELCOT).

© Copyright 2000 - 2009 The Hindu